Falcons give coach Curtiss goosebumps

La Salle is at the top of its game in an 82-44 rout of Estacada

With a target on their backs, the top-ranked La Salle Falcons last week put two more games in the win column, upping their season record to 14-2 (4-0 in the Tri-Valley Conference] in boys basketball with wins over Madras (56-45) and Estacada (82-44).

The Falcons shot the lights out in last Fridays game with the Rangers, hitting 31-of-60 shots from the floor, including twelve 3-pointers.

Junior wings Matthew DAmore and Reece Wible were on fire. The 5-8 DAmore connected on 5-of-8 shots from beyond the arc, while Wible, at 6-6, was 6-of-11 from the field  with four 3-pointers.

Led by Wible (6 assists) and 5-6 junior Michael Edwards (5 assists), the Falcons had assists on 29 of 31 baskets. And La Salles entire team only had six turnovers, as the guards ran the offense like a well-oiled machine.

The Falcons outscored the visiting Rangers in every quarter, building a 36-21 advantage by halftime and a 63-35 lead heading into the final period.

We hit twelve 3s tonight because we were active against their zone, said La Salle coach Jared Curtiss. Posts flashed strong and guards had ready feet and hands. The passes were right at the numbers, which is a big reason we connected on so many.

Our guys believe in each teammate and they know their role. And when you see your kids play this hard and unselfishly, it gives coaches goosebumps....

We might not be the best collection of players, as we graduated so many last year. But this is a great team that makes the extra pass, takes charges, and are genuinely excited for each other.

Curtiss said that rebounding and ball control were pivotal in the Jan. 28 home win over the upset-minded White Buffaloes.

Nursing a 28-21 lead at halftime, the Falcons widened the gap in the third period.

Defense was pivotal down the stretch. Madras was 3-of-13 from the field in the fourth frame.

Luke Kolln had a big game for the Falcons, scoring 10 points, assisting on five baskets, and heading up the defense with six steals.

Smith (14 points, 9 rebounds) and Wible (12 points) were the top point-getters for the Falcons.